J Hand Ther. 2026 Jun 17:S0894-1130(26)00057-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jht.2026.05.012. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a prevalent peripheral neuropathy caused by median nerve compression at the wrist, with higher incidence in women. While motor and sensory impairments are well-established, broader effects on cognitive-motor integration and biomechanical properties remain underexplored, necessitating a multidimensional evaluation.
PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome severity on cognitive, sensorimotor, biomechanical, and functional outcomes in women using descriptive and clinical measurement approaches.
STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study.
METHODS: One hundred female participants (mean age: 42.7 ± 10.1 years) were included: 75 patients with mild, moderate, or severe carpal tunnel syndrome and 25 healthy controls. Laterality judgment was assessed using the Recognise app, and reaction time with the BlazePod system. Motor and sensory functions were evaluated using grip strength (dynamometer), pain intensity (Numerical Rating Scale), two-point discrimination, and nerve conduction studies. Abductor pollicis brevis muscle stiffness was measured with MyotonPRO, and functional status was determined via the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire.
RESULTS: Carpal tunnel syndrome patients showed significantly reduced grip strength (mean difference: 10.9 kg; p < 0.001), longer reaction times (mean difference: 366.5 ms; p < 0.001), and lower laterality judgment accuracy (mean difference: 35.1%; p < 0.001) compared to controls. Sensory conduction velocity declined (mean difference: 54.2 m/s; p < 0.001), while distal motor latency increased (mean difference: 4.7 ms; p < 0.001). Muscle stiffness (F = 33.9, p < 0.001) and pain intensity (F = 73.8, p < 0.001) were significantly higher in severe carpal tunnel syndrome. Reaction time showed moderate negative correlations with grip strength and laterality accuracy (r ≈ -0.53 to -0.58; p < 0.01).
CONCLUSIONS: Female patients with carpal tunnel syndrome exhibit impairments in cognitive, sensorimotor, biomechanical, and functional domains. The progressive nature of these impairments and their interrelationships support the need for comprehensive, multidimensional assessment and personalized rehabilitation strategies.
PMID:42309843 | DOI:10.1016/j.jht.2026.05.012